Rendering in SketchUp

312
Part 4: Setting Light with Shadows
Fig. 18.24: 
The roof layer is turned off so the roof is hidden from view.
Fig. 18.25: 
Without the roof, SketchUp shadows can be cast into the scene and rendered.

---

313
Chapter 18: Composing Light
Fig. 18.26: 
The rendered version of the interior scene using SketchUp shadows for lighting (Twilight Render)
Fig. 18.27: 
Shadows and light are set parallel to the view (Shaderlight).

---

314
Part 4: Setting Light with Shadows
Fig. 18.28: 
Shadows are cast toward the camera, creating an overly dark render with poor contrast (Shaderlight).
To create this type of contrast, use the following guidelines:
3
3
Set light to cast relatively parallel to the camera view.
3
3
Cast light away from the camera view. Light pointed at the camera causes a scene to look 
flat and muted because the shaded surfaces will dominate. The brighter, forward-facing 
surfaces will be contrasted by the longer, darker shadows cast behind them.
3
3
Use Shadow Boxes to cast longer, darker shadows into part of the foreground and 
midground. Use any building mass for the same effect. Shadows should be visible and 
long, but not long enough to meld into each other.
Composing the Light
The various steps and settings outlined here will help ensure that your composing process is 
efficient and quick. The process requires using layers and scenes to maintain performance, 
as outlined in Part 3. These steps will enable you to save scenes that simulate a rendered 
appearance, thus mimicking rendering contrast.
1. 
Pick a camera view. Pan, orbit, zoom, and use Position Camera to achieve your desired 
view (Fig. 18.29).